Twenty-two-year old Samantha Jeckells has become the eighth generation to join the family sailmaking business.

Jeckells – the world’s oldest family sailmaker – celebrated its 175th anniversary last year and now Samantha, daughter of managing director Chris Jeckells, becomes the first female family member to work full-time at the Wroxham, Norfolk-based business.

“She’s bright and full of ideas and I’m pleased that another generation of the Jeckells family is joining the firm,” said Chris Jeckells, who joined the business in 1973, taking over from his father Raymond in 1991.

Initially Samantha is learning the ropes of production administration, under the watchful eye of the firm’s long serving team.

“There’s a huge amount to learn and a lot to live up, but that’s what makes it exciting,” said Samantha.

Known throughout the world as a market leading manufacturer of performance sails, Jeckells attributes the firm’s longevity down to its high-quality products and customer service.

“We invest heavily in technology and the pride in what we do is unbelievable. We share our customers’ passion for sailing and we’ll do everything we can to help them,” added Chris Jeckells.